Once Upon A Chef

1 week ago | onceuponachef.com | Jennifer Segal

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my full disclosure policy. This quick pico de gallo recipe brings the zing—pile it on tacos, scoop it with chips, or serve it with grilled anything. There’s nothing like the fresh, vibrant flavor of homemade pico de gallo. Also called salsa fresca or salsa Mexicana, it’s a simple mix of chopped tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, cilantro, and lime juice—but when the ingredients are good, it’s hard to beat.

2 weeks ago | onceuponachef.com | Jennifer Segal

Combine the water, butter, sugar, and salt in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the butter melts. Reduce the heat to low and add the flour all at once, stirring vigorously with a wooden spoon until the dough forms a smooth ball, about 1 minute. Transfer the dough to the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or use a hand mixer with beaters). Let it cool for about five minutes.

2 weeks ago | onceuponachef.com | Jennifer Segal

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my full disclosure policy. This classic mint julep is the ultimate warm-weather sipper—perfect for Derby Day or any sunny afternoon. A mint julep is Southern hospitality in a glass—and the signature drink of the Kentucky Derby. It’s usually enjoyed trackside, but it’s just as perfect for any warm-weather get-together, especially if you’ve got mint taking over your garden like I do.

3 weeks ago | onceuponachef.com | Jennifer Segal

Make the Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the pineapple juice, vinegar, sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and cook, uncovered, for 8 minutes. In a small bowl, stir the cornstarch with 1½ tablespoons cold water. Whisk the mixture into the sauce. Cook for 1 more minute, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. Remove from heat and set aside.

4 weeks ago | onceuponachef.com | Jennifer Segal

Make the Choux PastryPreheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and set an oven rack in the middle position. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium saucepan, combine the water, milk, butter, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter is fully melted. Reduce the heat to low, add the flour all at once, and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a smooth ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan, about 1 minute.